Symptoms of High Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty substance in our body, that is used to make healthy cells, vitamin D, and vital hormones. Cholesterol is also an important constituent in foods of animal origin. This wax-like substance, formed in the liver, travels in the blood stream in small packets. High cholesterol means the amount of cholesterol in the blood is too much. Factors such as poor diet, inactivity, and obesity are responsible for causing high cholesterol levels in the blood.

Symptoms of High Cholesterol

People besieged with high cholesterol levels generally do not show any symptoms. So, even if you are feeling healthy, your cholesterol level might be high. A blood test can help diagnose high cholesterol. However, if the cholesterol is severely elevated, then the following symptoms are observed:

• Spleen and liver enlargement (can be assessed during physical examination).
• Corneal arcus (rings are noticed around the cornea)
• Skin changes; fatty deposits observed under the skin and around the eyes.
• Yellow patches can be distinctly seen around the eyelids; this is because excess cholesterol gets collected around the eyelids or underneath the skin.
• Change in the color of peripheral cornea.
• Fatty nodules over tendons.
• Cardiovascular symptoms in which the arteries that supply blood to different body organs become narrow. This can cause blood clots and give cause a heart attack.
• Formulation of fatty deposits in the blood vessels. Eventually, the quantity of blood flowing through the arteries reduces. As a result, the heart does not get sufficient oxygen-rich blood. This can lead to the development of severe health problems, such as coronary heart disease and peripheral heart disease. Decreased flow of blood to the brain can also lead to a stroke.

Causes of High Cholesterol

An unhealthy diet is considered to be the main cause of high cholesterol levels. If your diet includes foods that contain a high amount of saturated fat, you can expect your cholesterol level to be high. Pork, beef, cheese, butter and eggs contain high amounts of saturated fat. Lack of exercise too, can contribute to rising cholesterol levels. Leading an sedentary lifestyle can significantly increase the risk of developing heart diseases.

Being overweight can increase your cholesterol levels. People who are overweight or obese have higher chances of contracting heart diseases. Cholesterol levels depend, to a large extent, on the age and gender of the person. As age increases, cholesterol levels also rise. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption has also been associated with high cholesterol levels. Medical conditions, that include liver disease, diabetes, and kidney disease can also lead to increased cholesterol levels. If high blood cholesterol is prevalent in your family, your body may be producing more cholesterol than required. A recent study has shown that men are more prone to this condition than women.

Treatment for High Cholesterol

A healthy diet, loaded with fruits and green vegetables along with regular exercise can help to achieve a better cholesterol profile. The doctor may give you some guidelines on what and how to eat. In addition to exercise and diet, doctors may also recommend certain medications, such as statins, to bring your cholesterol level under control. In case, you have a high cholesterol level, regular intake of medicines is essential to reduce the risk of a heart attack.

A low fat diet is the best way to prevent high cholesterol levels. One must avoid eating packed or junk food. Natural products such as garlic, grape extracts, and fiber supplements are well-known for their ability to lower cholesterol levels. Consuming a healthy diet and practicing an exercise regimen can go a long way in preventing health complications related to high cholesterol levels.